A particularly interesting aspect of Heishman’s research was that he used only non-smokers and smokers who weren’t experiencing withdrawal cravings when testing the effects of nicotine. In doing so, he eliminated the risk of the smokers performing better due to the immediate withdrawal relief provided by a nicotine dose.

Heishman’s team also reviewed the extensive body of scientific research into the effects of nicotine gathered over the past 40 years, discovering supporting evidence that nicotine positively effects human brain performance. One such example was a study that observed higher levels of labour productivity among smokers.

Adding this scientific research is a large body of anecdotal evidence suggesting that nicotine does indeed have performance-enhancing effects. From scientists and political masterminds to athletes and performing artists, nicotine has helped some of the most creative and athletic talents throughout history to excel in their chosen fields. Einstein, Churchill, and Picasso being among the many examples.

So while further research is needed, from this study it looks quite possible that nicotine makes you smarter! Who’d have thought it?

Of course, that doesn’t mean that smoking isn’t a stupid thing to do – there are stacks of scientific research proving that smoking is a surefire way to increase your chances of dying early from dozens of diseases like cancer, heart disease, and stroke.

Getting your nicotine through electronic cigarette vapour instead is the perfect solution. It lets you enjoy all the good stuff about cigarettes, like nicotine and the comforting “smoking” ritual, without any of the bad stuff … like the smoke!